Pregnant women and their partners can receive support, information and resources by a birth doula to help them learn more about pregnancy, what to expect at labor, physical comfort measures and much more that can help them gain confidence and minimize fear. The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced non-medical professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother, as well as her spouse and/or family, before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.